The British Embassy in Mogadishu said King will lead the UK mission in Somalia, focusing on deepening the partnership between the United Kingdom and Somalia across critical sectors such as governance, development, security, and humanitarian assistance.

“It is an honour to serve as UK Ambassador to Somalia,” King said upon arrival. “I look forward to working closely with Somali partners to support peace, progress, and prosperity. Going far, together. Waad mahadsantihiin – aan horey u soconno wadajir.”

READ: Charles King appointed

King’s appointment was announced earlier this year by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

A seasoned diplomat, he brings extensive experience from postings in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Gaza, Egypt, and Turkey. He joined the FCDO in 2004 and is fluent in Arabic, a valuable asset for diplomatic work in the region.

His arrival reaffirms the UK’s enduring commitment to Somalia’s stability and development at a time of ongoing regional and domestic challenges.

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The UK announced an additional $3.9 million contribution to the United Nations-administered SSF Trust Fund.

The Trust Fund, managed by the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), currently supports 18,900 personnel from the Somali National Army and Somali Police Force.

In 2024 alone, UK funding enabled UNSOS to deliver 6,000 tons of food rations and 2,000 tons of diesel fuel to the SSF, along with providing casualty evacuations (CASEVAC) for hundreds of wounded personnel.

The latest contribution will ensure continued delivery of this vital logistical support.

UNSOS requires a minimum of $2 million per month to support the planned increase in SSF personnel from 18,900 to 20,900, as outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2767 (2024).

Additional funding is urgently needed, especially for UNSOS’s life-saving CASEVAC operations during ongoing military campaigns.

The UK reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Somalia’s security transition, emphasizing the importance of enabling UNSOS to continue its essential support to the SSF.

Outgoing British Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, says the contribution shows The UK is a firm friend of Somalia and at this vital moment.

“I’m proud to be announcing further funding to support the fight against violent extremists. I encourage other partners to contribute to the UNSOS SSF Trust Fund, to support the brave Somali Security Forces and to ensure a safe and secure future for all Somalis and the region,” Nithavrianakis said.

Somalia’s National Security Advisor, Hussein Sheikh Ali, also emphasized the importance of the Trust Fund and the government’s commitment to using it responsibly.

“The logistical support provided by UNSOS has been significant for the Somali Security Forces, particularly in CASEVAC and MEDEVAC. We urge donors to increase funding in 2025 as the FGS continues to generate new forces,” said Mr. Ali.

Theft of food and fuel

Somalia has a history of aid diversion, including theft of food and fuel intended for its security forces, provided by international partners.

Last year, the U.S. government cut rations and fuel support to the elite Danab forces after Washington discovered that supplies had been misappropriated.

However, Somalia’s National Security Advisor, Hussein Sheikh Ali, says the government is committed to doing better this time.

“I reiterate the Somali government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to international standards in the use of these resources,” said Hussein Sheikh Ali.

The Head of UNSOS, Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, praised the UK’s continued support while the air evacuation remains vital for injured soldiers.

“I remain grateful to the UK Government for its steadfast support of the SSF during the ongoing transition. CASEVAC operations have saved lives and boosted the morale of the Somali forces. It is crucial to have a reliable, predictable Trust Fund, and I urge partners to also contribute as we support Somalia’s security transition,” said Kacyira.

This latest UK contribution builds on earlier funding, bringing the total UK support to more than $50 million since 2021. In February 2025, the UK contributed £5 million, following earlier donations of £5 million in September 2024, £2.75 million in April 2024, £5 million in January 2024, and £5 million in December 2023.

The funding comes at a time of growing concern, as Al-Shabaab militants have advanced toward Mogadishu, the Somali capital. The group has begun encircling the city, raising fears of a possible assault and the potential for the capital to fall under militant control.

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The extremist group has also escalated attacks inside Mogadishu, launching a series of deadly mortar bombardments and bombings that have raised fears among residents and exposed vulnerabilities in the city’s security apparatus.

Amid this deepening crisis, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud last week proposed a national platform to unite federal government institutions, regional states, and opposition groups in the fight against terrorism.

However, the initiative has yet to materialize, and political divisions remain stark — with at least two Federal Member States reportedly refusing to recognize his administration, which critics say is increasingly isolated in Mogadishu.

In response, Somalia’s international partners have welcomed the president’s call for a unified political and community platform, urging Somali leaders to take swift and coordinated action against the militant threat.

“A unified and inclusive strategy is indispensable to achieving success against Al-Shabaab and advancing Somalia’s state-building priorities,” said a joint statement released by Somalia’s international partners on 7 April.

“We urge the Government, Federal Member State leaders, and political and societal stakeholders to meet expeditiously to ensure a unified, effective response to the ongoing Al-Shabaab offensive.”

The partners — including the African Union, United Nations, United States, European Union, and neighboring countries — also commended the Somali Security Forces and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM) for their efforts in countering Al-Shabaab’s recent advances in Lower and Middle Shabelle regions.

“We remain steadfast in support of the government and people of Somalia as they strive to build a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous nation,” the statement added.

As the militant threat grows closer to Mogadishu, many observers warn that Somalia’s political impasse and lack of coordinated leadership could embolden Al-Shabaab unless urgent action is taken.

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Speaking at a summit of European and world leaders in London on Sunday, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer declared, “We are at a crossroads in history,” as he and other European leaders pledged to ramp up defense spending.

The summit, attended by leaders from the EU, Canada, and Turkey, took on added urgency following a contentious meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House.

The UK, France, and other nations have committed to backing Ukraine against Russia’s invasion should a ceasefire be declared.

However, Starmer emphasized that any military intervention under the “coalition of the willing” plan must have U.S. support.

He described Trump’s America as a “reliable ally” and stated that a “number of countries” had agreed to commit troops to a potential peacekeeping force.

However, he left it to individual nations to formally announce their participation.

NATO Troops Already Positioned Near Ukraine Border

Two weeks ago, 2,500 UK troops from the Army’s high-readiness force, the First Division, took part in a major NATO exercise in Romania, just 25 kilometers (16 miles) from the Ukrainian border.

Brigadier Andy Watson, who leads the British contingent in the NATO exercise, affirmed that his brigade is “absolutely ready” should orders come for deployment to Ukraine.

“The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air, together with others,” Watson told BBC. “Europe must do the heavy lifting.”

His statement suggests that EU member states could soon be sending their own troops to Ukraine as part of a broader strategy to counter Russian aggression.

Tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine escalated after President Trump publicly accused Zelenskyy of “disrespecting” U.S. support and “gambling with World War Three.”

The diplomatic fallout has fueled concerns among Western allies that the U.S. may not remain a steadfast military supporter of Ukraine.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas reacted strongly, stating on social media: “Today, it became clear that the free world needs a new leader. It’s up to us, Europeans, to take this challenge.”

In response, Prime Minister Starmer has sought to position himself as a mediator between the U.S. and Europe, particularly following the White House confrontation.

He confirmed that the UK, France, and Ukraine would work on a peace plan to be presented to the U.S., ensuring the White House remains part of the negotiations.

“The discussions we’ve had today, particularly the coalition of the willing, is on the basis that this is a plan that we will work with the U.S. and that it will have U.S. backing,” Starmer stated.

“That is the purpose of the plan, and that is why I spoke to President Trump last night before we developed the work on this plan.”

As European leaders step up their commitments to Ukraine’s defense, all eyes remain on Washington and whether the U.S. will stand by its allies in the face of escalating Russian threats.

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The counterterrorism operation, which began in December with backing from U.S. AFRICOM and the UAE through airstrikes, has resulted in the deaths of dozens of militants.

On Monday, Puntland counterterrorism forces took control of Sheebaab town, a significant ISIS stronghold that had served as the group’s headquarters.

The government announced the completion of the second phase of the operation, marking a major victory against the terror group.

However, top ISIS leaders, including Abdiqadir Mumin, remain at large after fleeing their stronghold.

Just a day before the victory in Sheebaab, outgoing British Ambassador Mike Nithavrianakis visited Bosaso, Puntland’s strategic port city and the base of the counterterrorism operation.

“It was very good seeing Puntland President @HESaidADeni in Bosaso today. The UK will be supporting #OpHilac against Daesh with medical supplies, among other things,” Nithavrianakis posted on X.

The ambassador, whose assignment ends in May, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to standing with Puntland in its fight against terrorism.

The Puntland president’s office confirmed the meeting, attended by government officials, focused on the ongoing counterterrorism operations. The UK praised Puntland’s efforts and also discussed strengthening UK-Puntland cooperation, ongoing development projects, and the broader security situation in Somalia.

During Monday’s operation, Puntland forces uncovered an underground hideout where ISIS leader Abdiqadir Mumin had been residing.

The hideout, hidden beneath a tomato farm to evade airstrikes, contained a tunnel several meters deep, an oxygen tube, and solar-powered lighting. Despite the discovery, Mumin was not captured.

Meanwhile, Puntland’s Police Chief, General Mumin Abdi, has urged civilians to remain vigilant, warning that fleeing ISIS fighters may try to hide among the local population.

“We want all Puntlanders to be vigilant as the ISIS terrorists fleeing from Cal Miskaad are trying to hide within the civilian population and might cause harm,” General Mumin Abdi said.

With ISIS leadership on the run, Puntland security forces continue their pursuit of the remaining militants.

#VIDEO: ISIS-SOMALIA LEADER’S UNDERGROUND HOUSE EXPOSED

Puntland counter-terror forces uncovered an underground house where top ISIS emir Abdiqadir Mumin had been living.

The house had a tomato farm on top as a cover from airstrikes, with a tunnel several meters deep. It was… pic.twitter.com/iREtbtsT6y

— Kaab TV (@KaabTV) February 24, 2025

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The officers of the British Border Guard said that these people are being questioned about the way they traveled, if there is another group of travelers and the money they paid.

Britain, which has already warned its French counterpart that it will send back the migrants who are flowing to its side, has not yet taken any action in this regard, but it has settled the asylum boat that came to certain places.

Officials of the immigration department of the British government said that in the year 2024, they cut a record number of people crossing the French border.

The UK is on the verge of completely banning small boats from taking on migrants who risk their lives trying to cross the strait between France and Britain.

The nationality of those people who are said to be from the continent of Africa has not been officially announced, there are preliminary reports that they include Somalis, Ethiopians, Eritreans and other countries from the same continent.

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King, a veteran diplomat with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), will assume the role in May 2025.

The appointment reflects the UK’s growing engagement in the Horn of Africa, particularly amid ongoing regional tensions and security challenges.

King, who has served in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Gaza, Egypt, and Turkey, has been with the FCDO since 2004.

In addition to English, he speaks Arabic, an asset for diplomatic efforts in the region.

Following the British Embassy Mogadishu’s announcement of his appointment, King expressed his enthusiasm, stating he was “delighted to be taking on the role and looking forward to starting soon.”

Meanwhile, the UK has reaffirmed its commitment to security partnerships across Africa. More than 22 African nations are participating in Exercise Justified Accord, a multinational military operation led by the US and supported by the UK.

Running from February 10–21, the exercise is hosted in Djibouti, Kenya, and Tanzania and includes both strategic table-top planning and live-action drills. These drills involve coordinated ground attacks, urban warfare tactics, drone operations, and air-support missions.

King’s appointment comes as the UK seeks to strengthen its influence in Africa, emphasizing long-term partnerships for peace and stability.

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Addressing representatives from over 30 world governments, he emphasized Somaliland’s strategic location and governance as key factors warranting global recognition.

The summit, hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), brought together world leaders, business executives, influential figures, tech entrepreneurs, and investors.

President Irro also addressed the possibility of U.S. recognition, mentioning the anticipated stance of U.S. President Donald Trump.

“We have strong relations with the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. Given our democratic governance, we hope the international community will acknowledge Somaliland’s sovereignty,” he said.

“We hope that the United States may be the first country to recognize Somaliland,” he added.

Somaliland President @Abdirahmanirro leveraged his platform at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on Tuesday to advocate for Somaliland’s international recognition. pic.twitter.com/yoVZgZY5t1

— Kaab TV (@KaabTV) February 12, 2025

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The British Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, who met with the peace committee recently appointed by President Irro, made suggestions to achieve lasting peace.

“I met with the recently formed peace committee. Lasting peace must begin with the exchange of prisoners, the opening of trade routes, and the strengthening of relations between the two peoples,” said Nithavrianakis.

The president of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Cirro, has said several times that he is determined to deal with the conflict between SSC Khatumo through dialogue and negotiation.

The newly appointed peace committee, which consists of 7 members, is also responsible for finding solutions to problems and strengthening peace.

There are also peace efforts carried out by Salah from the Somali Regional Government, who have visited Hargeisa and Lascaan, and want to bring the two sides together.

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Mike Nithavrianakis became the British Ambassador to Somalia last month taking over from his predecessor Kate Foster.

‘‘I am greatly honoured to have been appointed the UK’s Ambassador to Somalia. It was an incredibly proud moment to present my diplomatic credentials to His Excellency President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud,” the new ambassador Nithavrianakis said.

“Somalia is blessed with hugely enterprising people and a rich culture, and together I am confident our countries will strengthen our relations and overcome the challenges we face,” he adds.

UK mission in Somalia 

The British Embassy in Somalia was re-established in 2012 to support Somalia in becoming a more stable, secure and prosperous state.

Currently, Somalia is facing a severe humanitarian situation where 6.6 million people remain in severe food insecurity, with approximately 477,000 children at risk of being severely malnourished.

The UK is a significant donor to the crisis, having committed over £61 million in the
last financial year (22/23) for humanitarian, health and nutrition support.

“The UK’s support for, and commitment to, Somalia is stronger than ever, and I am thrilled to be getting started,” he added.

Nithavrianakis emphasised the UK’s enduring commitment to Somalia, including
supporting the fight against terrorist group al-Shabaab.

For his part, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressed his gratitude
for the UK’s support to Somalia on multiple fronts stating that UK’s long-
standing ties with Somalia.

‘It is a great pleasure to have you here. We are grateful for UK support in the
humanitarian, development and, above all, security sectors. The UK is a long-
standing friend of Somalia,” President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said.

Nithavrianakis brings a wealth of experience and knowledge into the new role. He
first joined the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in 1984.

He has had many roles and postings since then, including Deputy High Commissioner and Director Trade; Investment, Pakistan, Acting Deputy Head of Mission in Afghanistan, and most recently Consul General Milan; Director Trade; Investment in Italy.

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